MEMPHIS, Tenn.: Thousands of Elvis Presley fans marking the 35th anniversary of his death have received a surprise visit - the King's former wife and daughter appeared at the Graceland gathering.

It was the first time that Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley appeared together at the annual event on the eve of the Aug. 16, 1977, death.

The two women appeared on an elevated stage in front of the crowd Wednesday night and thanked them for coming.

Fans held up lit candles, illuminating their faces in orange light as they stood in the street outside the gates of Graceland.

Elvis admirers from around the United States and the globe have flocked each August anniversary to Graceland, where the singer is buried.

Presley's death at 42 years old shocked legions of fans around the world.